President Donald Trump announced 'Project Freedom' on Sunday evening, a U.S. initiative to escort commercial ships from neutral countries out of the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing war with Iran.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that neutral and innocent countries affected by the conflict would receive assistance. "We have told these Countries that we will guide their Ships safely out of these restricted Waterways, so that they can freely and ably get on with their business," he wrote. He described the effort as a humanitarian gesture on behalf of the United States, Middle Eastern countries, and particularly Iran.

The operation, dubbed Project Freedom, will begin Monday morning Middle East time. Trump warned that any interference with the process would be dealt with forcefully. He noted that his representatives are holding positive discussions with Iran that could lead to broader progress.

The announcement comes during a fragile three-week ceasefire in the U.S.-Iran war, which began on February 28, 2026, when the United States and Israel launched operations against Iran. Iran responded by effectively closing the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint through which about 20% of the world's oil and significant natural gas, fertilizers, and petroleum products pass. The U.S. imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports starting April 13, further restricting traffic.

Hundreds of vessels, including oil tankers and cargo ships, have been stranded in the Persian Gulf since the war started, trapping around 20,000 seafarers, many from India and Southeast Asia. Crews have reported low supplies, drone sightings, and missile interceptions. U.S. Central Command noted that 49 commercial ships have been turned back recently, and at least two dozen attacks have occurred in the area.

The strait remains impassable due to Iranian threats, mines, and attacks, including a reported incident Sunday involving a cargo ship near the strait, which Iran denied as routine. Iran has demanded tolls for passage, prompting U.S. warnings of sanctions on paying firms. Oil prices have surged as a result.

Talks to end the war continue, with Iran recently proposing a 14-point plan via Pakistan, including sanctions relief, ending the blockade, force withdrawals, and ceasing hostilities within 30 days. Trump has expressed cautious optimism, but no nuclear issues are on the table yet.

Reactions were swift. Senator Lindsey Graham praised the decision to restore freedom of navigation. Iranian officials denounced it as a ceasefire violation and part of Trump's 'delirium,' vowing not to relinquish control of the strait. U.S. forces in the region include guided-missile destroyers, over 100 aircraft, unmanned platforms, and 15,000 service members.